Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Education
K-12 Teacher Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for K-12 Teacher in Washington
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- No exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$99,110 median (59% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for K-12 Teacher licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: No exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $99,110, K-12 Teachers in Washington earn 59% above the national median of $62,340. Washington ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$99,110Hourly estimate
$47.6559% above national median
Difference: +$36,770
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#1 of 50 statesfor K-12 Teacher median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | $99,110 |
| #2 | California | $98,190 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | $86,900 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | $83,260 |
| #5 | New York | $82,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
K-12 Teacher licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Idaho | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction
600 Washington St SE, Olympia, WA, 98504
Phone: 3607256372
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $77,310 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $81,050 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $84,690 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $66,150 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for K-12 Teachers in Washington?
Washington lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for K-12 Teachers.
What education do you need to become a K-12 Teacher in Washington?
The board typically expects Specific course required for K-12 Teacher licensure in Washington.
What is the typical K-12 Teacher salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in Washington is $99,110. Salaries range from $62,900 (10th percentile) to $122,830 (90th percentile).
How does the K-12 Teacher salary in Washington compare to the national average?
K-12 Teachers in Washington earn 59% above the national median of $62,340, with a state median of $99,110.
How many K-12 Teachers work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 30,790 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher license to Washington from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for K-12 Teachers in Washington?
The licensing agency is Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. Review agency details at http://www.k12.wa.us/certification.
How often do you renew a K-12 Teacher license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.